Tuesday, April 7, 2015

OSTEOPOROSIS - ARE YOU AT RISK? by Karen Gilman, Registered Holistic Nutritionist

Some of the more obvious symptoms of menopause include hot flashes, sleepless nights and mood swings. However, menopause can also result in bone loss. This 'silent symptom' of menopause is osteoporosis and is a direct result of dropping estrogen levels. It is important to talk to your doctor about doing bone scans to check for bone density. To help counter the impact of bone loss, we need to focus on getting the right nutrients for bone health.

Nutrients that are important for bone health include:a) Calcium – The most abundant mineral in the body, necessary for maintaining strong bonesb) Magnesium – Important for calcium absorptionc) Phosphorus - Works with calcium to increase bone strengthd) Vitamin D – Needed for calcium absorptione) Vitamin K – Essential for calcium breakdownf) Zinc – Important for calcium absorption

These nutrients work together. If consumption is extremely high of one particular nutrient the other nutrients may not be absorbed as well.

In a food processor, pulse almonds until crumbly and partly smooth. Add dates, tahini and salt and continue to process. Texture will be crumbly so add water, 1 tbsp at a time, until dough forms in to a ball. Form 1 inch rounds and roll in sesame seeds or cocoa to coat. Cool in refrigerator to firm.

For more information on how to manage osteoporosis through diet, email me at karen@nutrilicious.ca